Katherine Gail Young Johnson

One of Earth’s most beautiful souls, Katherine Gail Young Johnson, went to be with the Lord on January 27th, 2025. Gail passed while holding the hand of her beloved daughter, Shannan. Gail resided in Chickamauga, GA, and spent her final years living next door to her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren, Cohen and Campbell Kate. Gail was born in Chattanooga, TN, but lived much of her childhood in Boston, MA, before returning to Chattanooga. Gail graduated from Kirkman Technical High School in 1968 and studied Business Accounting and Finance at Chattanooga State. Gail worked in accounting and bookkeeping for many years, mainly for her husband’s construction company, Johnson Construction. Gail knew it was never too late to follow her dreams, so she returned to school to become a licensed cosmetologist in her 50s. Gail enjoyed her final working years as a hairdresser where she was loved by many of her clients. Gail always took great pride in making her clients feel beautiful. Gail herself was a beautiful woman, inside and out. Gail retired from cosmetology after the birth of her first grandchild and would proudly tell anyone that her favorite “job” was watching her grandchildren. Gail married the love of her life, William “Terry” Johnson, on April 22, 1983. Together, they had one daughter, Teri “Shannan”. Gail also loved being a stepmother to her stepson, Shea. Gail and Terry were married for 41 years. Terry passed away only 9 months before Gail on April 2, 2024. Their family finds comfort and peace knowing Terry and Gail are reunited again. There was nothing in the world Gail wanted more than to be a mother and she would often say motherhood was the greatest gift of her life. Gail and her daughter, Shannan, shared such a special bond. No one could know Gail for long without her telling them how proud she was of her daughter and grandchildren. Gail was a wonderful friend and was blessed with many friendships that spanned decades. Gail’s heart was full and it overflowed onto all who knew her. She was truly one of the most compassionate people and was incredibly generous. Gail showed a kind of love that will be etched on our hearts forever. Gail was preceded in death by her husband, William Terry Johnson; her grandmother, Della “Mamagranny” Young; and several other beloved family members. Gail is survived by her daughter, Shannan (Jeremy) Hayes; Stepson, Shea (Kim) Johnson; her grandchildren, Cohen, Campbell Kate, William, and Samantha; many dear friends and family members; and her beloved dog, Presley. The family would like to express their gratitude to the healthcare workers who provided exemplary care to Gail over the years including her doctors, nurses, and the staff of the CCU at CHI Memorial Hospital. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life for Gail on February 9, 2025, 1:00 - 4:00 pm at Five Dollar Farm (185 Hurt Dr. Rock Spring, GA 30739). Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Home-J. Avery Bryan Chapel, Chickamauga.

Katherine Gail Young Johnson

November 29, 1950 - January 27, 2025